My name is Nicola, I'm a quirky, forty something, "neurospicy", visual, creative goblin.. whoops I mean florist.
I'm based in Oxted, Surrey and I'm a Mum to a beautiful, teenage daughter. I'm also a carer/supporter to my partner, who has 4 teenage/young adult children. I'm organised chaos (out of work) and have had a life full of ups and downs. Lived through difficult times (as most of us have) and finally coming out the other side. Growing and learning always, and figuring it all out as I go.
I was nearly 8 years old when I knew I wanted to be a florist. As an 80's kid - I was originally inspired by Little Shop of Horrors. Seeing that florist (Seymour) and a man eating, plant fascinated me! I mean- who wouldn't want to have their own Audrey 2?! ha ha
Films such as Labyrinth, Dark Crystal, Beetlejuice, The Goonies and TROLL! (yes Troll...lol) only added to my strange little mind, (which had already wandered off into another world). As I visualised all these magical places, and believed them all to be real, - I now realise how these things have shaped me and 100 % has contributed to my "creative mind and vivid imagination". Always being a little different, thinking outside the box and being able to see things for real, as if right in front of my eyes. I now realise that this isn't something everyone does. It's certainly a gift most of the time and is great for being a creative florist.
As soon as I was old enough to work, I naturally got myself a job in a florist and started off as a Saturday girl at the age of 14. As soon as I left school, I found a full time Junior position and studied 4 years at college to support my learning. Working up to Senior, I went back to where I first started as a Saturday girl. The owner of the company was the most incredible florist I have ever known and was very specialist. (lucky me) Super talented, creative thinker and skills way in front of the trends, all of which are now making a return. Like fashion, styles and trends always seem to come back around.
I then became manager of a very successful London florist. Here I lead an incredible team of 15, most of whom I'm still connected with or have gone on to be lifelong friends, with my final florist job being in Surrey.
Now for the uncomfortable bit...lol doo, do doooooo.... it's trumpet time... experiences and success
I've done flowers for our late beloved Queen, celebrity events, been featured in Vogue, and had many of my creations in publications such as Wedding Flowers magazine, Your Surrey Wedding and Your Kent Wedding magazines. I have had the privilege of creating beautiful displays in many incredible venues across the country. From places such as Westminster Abbey, Hampton Court Palace, The Guildhall, AELTC (Wimbledon Tennis) right through to Grand London Hotels including The Savoy, The Mayfair and The Mandarin Oriental. I used to do weekly installations with the prestige auctioneers Bonhams and a variety of large London corporations. I've even demonstrated at Hampton Court Palace flower show, across the counties at various flower clubs and societies.
After experiencing some extreme & threatening behaviours in work situations, this unfortunately left me traumatised and pushed me to a breakdown. I stepped away from working in the industry that I love the most and have never worked in a florist again. Keeping on a mask and pretending to be someone I'm not, was exhausting! and I refuse to do it anymore. It's taken years of growth and learning, and to finally start to understand myself has been an incredible journey. Now that I have found ME again, I don't want to put her back in the shadows. I'm always pivoting, to go with what feels right and not what is expected.
I went on to do a bit of labouring, was a Postie for a couple of years (loved the banter), charity events, worked in retail merchandising and even did a bit of consultancy work. After losing my Mum to Ovarian Cancer in 2017 I put my heart and passions into working for Cancer Research UK for 5 years, which I loved. Despite being offered the managers' role on many occasions, I was not able to work full time, and with no manager for 18months my little shop closed. I was made redundant. All of these industries I learnt a lot in and have grown my skills and as a person because of them.
I'm a firm believer that all things happen for a reason, and having hid myself away in the shadows for far too long, this was a reminder that it was time to shine. Since venturing back out - I've gone on to being part of a gold medal winning team at both RHS Chelsea Flower Show and RHS Hampton Court. Just last month (June 2026) I made it to the finals of the Muddy Stiletto Awards (Surrey) - Can't believe it ! - I am one of the top 10 best florists in Surrey.
Trusting that I have the skills, experience and knowledge to do what I do and knowing I can make a difference in someones' life. My heart is true and my intentions are genuine, and I know this will lead me in the right direction. I'm trusting the process and hope to grow as I go - because at the end of the day we are all just "bringing it and winging it" right?!
Like so many, I also have a continuous battle... as Imposter Syndrome gets its crusty claws in yet again, I work hard to spread my little seeds of strength around. I'm focused on building the courage to start promoting myself effectively - and cannot wait for people to start to hear all about my unique little biz.
Super exciting and a lifelong dream- I have recently opened up The Secret Studio - this enchanted, magical realm is hidden away in the heart of Oxted, Surrey. A calm, creative space for people to immerse themselves in my intimate, intuitive, holistic floral experiences and botanical crafts. Yes, this is my base, but I can also take my experiences on the road. So whether it's at home, at work or in the woods - I like to go where the wind blows.
What I love most about running a business is the freedom to create in an undefined way. To go with my instincts and trust my growth. I strive for exceptional customer service and like to engage with people in a unique, personable & relaxed, (but professional) manner. I love watching people transform during my workshops and experiences. Whilst it may sound morbid, funeral work is actually one of my most precious and meaningful things. Being part of such special events and bringing peace and calm to someone's grieving process is not only rewarding but brings a soulful connection beyond belief. I love how transformative flowers are in so many ways. Not only visually, but emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually too. Flowers aren't just flowers, they are so much more. I was born to do what I do and I know the right people will find me at the right time.
So to wrap this up ... my goal and aspirations going forward is to grow my little biz with community and connection. Creating lasting, genuine relationships and forming strong collaborations for a sustainable future together. This is what brings me happiness and is when I feel most me. I don't want quick fixes, and one stop wonders. I want PEOPLE! Real people, with heart and soul. People that want to grow with you, together and not stab you in the back. Supporting each other, to evolve in a natural, free forming way and not because you're out for yourself. This can make things feel a little less scary and a lot less lonely. Yes we all need money to survive, but this is not what drives me. Helping, supporting, learning, growing... are just some of my core values and ultimately what makes me tick. Seeing people succeed is such a beautiful thing and knowing that in some small way we've done it all together, means so much more than just making it alone.
4. Any website/socials links
www.thewrightchoiceflowers.co.uk
Insta/Facebook: @thewrightchoiceflowers
